Claude Virden (2002) - Hall of Fame - Murray State University Athletics

Claude Virden

Induction:
2002

Claude Virden – Basketball, 1968-1970

Is one of the all-time MSU basketball greats. He played under Coach Cal Luther from 1968-1970. During his career, Virden scored 1,490 career points to rank 13^th on the MSU all-time scoring list. However, when he wrapped up his MSU career in 1970, he was ranked 4^th all-time. He is also 9^th on the career rebounds list with 778 and second all-time in career field goals with 275. He was drafted by the Seattle Supersonics of the NBA but opted for the Kentucky Colonels of the ABA.

OVC Player of the Year in 1969, only the second Racer basketball player to win the award at the time. Two-time All-OVC. Had 1490 career points, which was good for fourth in all-time MSU scoring at the time (currently ranked seventh). At the time of graduation, he was first in career scoring average (21.0), seventh in free throws scored (250), second in field goals scored (620), fifth in rebounds (778), and fourth in rebound average (11.0). Led team in scoring (657), field goals (275), and field goal attempts (542) in MSU’s drive to its second NCAA appearance in 1969. Drafted by the Seattle Supersonics of the NBA but opted for the Kentucky Colonels of the ABA. All OVC 1968 and 1969.